Green for less
A recent visit to a renovated branch of Shufersal left me very impressed, not only because of the interior design and new fridges but also because of the new “green” corner, which offers extensive organic and eco-friendly products, as well as a large selection of gluten-free, sugar-free products. What I loved was Shufersal’s ownlabel organic collection, which includes beans, lentils, rice, seeds, oats and bulgur. A package of four types of organic lentils and beans costs NIS 29.90 (or one for NIS 4.90 to NIS 13.50). Available at the green corners in Shufersal.

Mexican food for Passover
In keeping with the no-gluten diet trend and just in time for Passover, the Tres Pesos importing company suggests stocking up on its Mexican corn-based products, which include 100% corn, sugar-free and gluten-free white cornmeal (1 kg. NIS 35), perfect for baking and making crispy nachos. Kosher for Passover for those who eat legumes on the holiday. Tres Pesos products are available in most supermarkets and delicatessens and online at www.trespesoshop.co.il.

Lighten up for spring
It’s almost time to put our thick blankets back in storage and bring out the lighter ones for spring. Home Center is now displaying its own new colorful knitted cotton throws, and we can’t wait to try them. NIS 109.90 for a single size; NIS 149.90 for a double blanket. Available at all Home Center stores.

No matter how you slice it
There are many kitchen choppers and slicers, but from my experience, none are as good as the ones from Carmel Direct. I love its slicer and their spiral slicer, and now it suggests that those preparing for Passover try their vegetable cutters that are on sale for the holiday.

The classic slicer with one blade (NIS 119); the Slicer Pro with two blades (NIS 169); the Premium Slicer with three different blades (NIS 200). The sale ends April 30. Available at Carmel Direct.

For more details, call 1-700- 700-642 or go to www.carmeldirect.com.

Italian cutlery If you’re looking for new cutlery for the upcoming holiday, take a look at the superb sets by Bugatti, which are sure to upgrade any Seder table with their sleek design and brilliant colors. There are many different collections. Some have gold embellishments, while others have handles made of leather or mother-of-pearl or are studded with Swarovski crystals. Our favorites were the retro design and the cheerful colorful set.

Prices range from NIS 490 to NIS 1,490 for a 24-piece set.

For more information, go to http:// casabugatti.co.il.
The perfect gift
No time to go to the spa? Take time off at home and relax before the holiday rush. Israeli cosmetic company Natural Sea Beauty has launched a pampering spa package with oil and sea salt body scrub and body butter from its Mineral Body line, which I’m sure all my girlfriends will love as a birthday present. I know I would. NIS 199.90. Available at the Duty Free shops.

Family-size packs
For large family meals, try Sunfrost’s new economical packages of frozen vegetables. The company has launched its most popular items, such as peas, green beans and peas & carrots, in new 1.6-kg. packs, which the company says will be sold to the wholesalers at a 17% to 20% reduction. We’ll have to wait and see if that reduction will be passed on to us.

Rub it in
Traumeel gel by Heel is my favorite treatment for muscle aches. Used mostly by professional athletes, this homeopathic gel is especially good for back, neck and shoulder pain and is safe to use for children, pregnant women and the elderly. The gel absorbs quickly, leaves no stains and has no odor.

NIS 72.40. Available at pharmacies.

Dry nights
The Huggies Freedom Dry disposable diapers have a new Quick Dry technology that keeps the baby’s bottom dry throughout the night. Made in the company’s new plant in Israel, the diapers represent “…nothing less than a breakthrough,” offering a thinner diaper with a 20% larger absorbing area and 60% more flexibility, according to company sources.